How to Stay Cool During 100-Degree Days — Even As Staten Island's Real Estate Market is HEATING UP!

How to Stay Cool During 100-Degree Days — Even in Staten Island’s Hottest Real Estate Market!

When the thermometer pushes past 100 degrees in Staten Island, even the most seasoned New Yorkers start to feel the heat. And with both the weather and the real estate market heating up, it’s never been more important to know how to keep your cool—literally and figuratively.

Whether you're a homeowner trying to beat the heat, a potential buyer trekking from open house to open house, or a seller trying to stage a property in sauna-like temps, this guide has you covered. Let's explore how to stay cool during triple-digit days without breaking a sweat—or your budget.

1. Keep It Cool Without Cranking the AC

It’s tempting to blast the air conditioning 24/7, but high energy bills and overworked HVAC systems can take a toll. Here are smarter, more efficient ways Staten Island homeowners can cool their space:

Close blinds and curtains during peak sunlight hours. South- and west-facing windows are heat magnets—treat them like they’re working against you.
Use blackout curtains or thermal shades for bonus cooling.
Invest in ceiling fans and make sure they spin counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward.
Try placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan for DIY AC. It’s a quick fix that works surprisingly well in smaller rooms.

For homeowners preparing to list their Staten Island home, keeping the property cool isn’t just for comfort—it’s also for presentation. A fresh, comfortable showing makes a lasting first impression.

2. Hydrate (Yourself and Your Home)

Keep a pitcher of lemon or cucumber water in the fridge. It’s a little thing, but hydration stations make open houses feel inviting.
Use dehumidifiers in basements and bathrooms. Staten Island summers can get sticky, and less humidity = cooler air.
Misting plants like ferns or peace lilies can reduce room temps slightly while adding life to your home staging.

Bonus: If you’re selling, these small touches add a “spa-like” vibe to your walkthrough—helping buyers imagine their own oasis.

3. Work With Staten Island’s Natural Breezes

Believe it or not, Staten Island’s waterfront geography is your friend.

In the evenings, open windows on opposite sides of the house to create a cross-breeze.
If you live in St. George, Great Kills, or South Beach, capitalize on those coastal winds with outdoor seating areas—just be sure they’re shaded!

Homes near the water are always in demand—mentioning proximity to a breeze-worthy bay can actually help you market your home to potential buyers.

4. Quick Fixes That Make a Big Difference

Not ready for a full-blown HVAC upgrade? No problem. Try these smaller, faster fixes:

Switch to LED bulbs — they produce far less heat than incandescent ones.
Seal cracks around windows and doors to keep cool air in and hot air out.
Consider reflective window film—an inexpensive, invisible way to deflect heat.
Install a smart thermostat to keep your home efficient and energy-smart.

These improvements aren’t just good for summer—they’re appealing upgrades for Staten Island homebuyers looking for energy-efficient features.

5. Stay Cool During Showings & Open Houses

Selling your home in July or August? You're not just competing in a hot market—you’re doing it while the sun tries to sabotage everyone’s good mood.

Cool the home before guests arrive, then lower the AC or turn on fans as they tour.
Offer cold drinks—bottled water, lemonade, or even popsicles in the freezer. It’s a small gesture that makes a big impression.
Avoid baking or using the oven beforehand. A hot kitchen = a sweaty tour.
Keep outdoor areas shaded, whether that’s with umbrellas, pergolas, or well-placed trees. Shaded patios add to a home’s summer appeal.

6. Explore Staten Island’s Coolest Spots

If you need a break from your home search or just want to cool off between appointments, Staten Island offers plenty of refreshing escapes:

The Staten Island Greenbelt: Shady trails, cool streams, and peaceful vibes—nature’s AC.
South Beach Boardwalk: Ocean breezes and frozen treats make it a go-to summer spot.
Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices: There’s no better way to cool off while supporting a local business. Pro tip: Try the coconut cream.
Snug Harbor: With shaded botanical gardens and museum spaces, it’s a quiet spot for beating the heat.

If you’re a real estate agent showing homes, pointing out cool community perks like these can sweeten the pitch—especially during heat waves.

7. Smart Home, Cool Home

Today’s buyers are looking for more than square footage—they want tech-savvy comfort too. Smart home tools that help beat the heat include:

Smart thermostats (e.g., Nest, Ecobee) that optimize temperature throughout the day
Voice-activated fans and lights that reduce energy waste
Remote-controlled shades that adjust based on time of day or sunlight levels

At Tom Crimmins Realty, we’ve seen firsthand how these small upgrades can lead to quicker sales and stronger offers. If you're thinking about listing your Staten Island home this summer, we can help you highlight energy-efficient features that buyers love—especially on 100-degree days.

8. Don’t Sweat the Market

Yes, it’s hot out—and yes, the Staten Island real estate market is heating up too. But that doesn’t mean you should feel overwhelmed.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to make it through the summer without melting, partnering with a local expert like Tom Crimmins Realty makes all the difference. Staten Island may be sizzling, but that doesn’t mean your real estate journey has to be stressful.

And remember: Just because the market is hot, doesn’t mean you have to be.

Final Thoughts

When the temperature rises, staying cool isn’t just a comfort—it's a strategy. From energy-efficient tweaks to creative staging hacks and community getaways, there are plenty of ways to chill out while Staten Island heats up.

Looking to buy or sell in Staten Island this summer? The team at Tom Crimmins Realty knows how to keep the process cool, calm, and collected—even during the peak of the season.

Want more tips or local market insight? Reach out to Tom Crimmins Realty—we’re always here to help.

Stay cool out there.

Disclaimer: If you are not already listed with another real estate agency and are considering buying or selling a home in Staten Island, we’d be happy to help guide you through the process. This post is intended for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker.

Posted by Tom Crimmins Realty on June 25th, 2025

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